Behavioural Endocrinology

Behavioral endocrinology refers to genetic, molecular, cellular, psychological, and social influences on behaviour. This course reviews the current state of knowledge at the interfaces of hormones and behaviour in mammals. The course Behavioural Endocrinology consists of 4 themes, namely:

1. Introduction to behavioural endocrinology;
2. Reproduction;
3. Regulation of homeostasis;
4. Stress, social behaviour and learning.
   The course addresses basic principles of behaviour and endocrinology, but especially outlines the interrelationships of hormones, behaviour and nervous systems. Contemporary knowledge is presented from diverse perspectives taking into account the historical background and findings that laid the foundations for modern studies of behavioral endocrinology.

• Interpret the importance of hormones and behavioural influences for an optimal functioning of the organism and interpret the importance of deviations from the optimum

• Summarize the regulatory mechanisms underlying the interactions between hormones and behaviour

• Apply the four different levels of analysis of behavioural questions

• Summarize the organizational and activating effects of gonadal hormones in relation to male and female reproduction, reproductive behaviour and parental care

• Discuss the concepts of different mating strategies

• Explain the types and control of the biological clocks and rhythms and the relation between biological clocks and seasonal rhythms

• Explain the physiological effects of the stress response

• Analyse the environmental influences on behavioural endocrinology and correlates of social behaviour, stress and learning and to conceptualize this knowledge in relation to adaptation

• Written test with open and closed questions (100%) The acquired knowledge will be tested by an exam that consists of 40 multiple-choice questions (weight approximately 2/5) and 6 to 10 essay questions (weight approximately 3/5).

ZSS06100 Laboratory Safety EZO10306/EZO10806 Zoology (- English) and HAP20306 Human and Animal Physiology.

• An Introduction to Behavioral Endocrinology (6th edition). Randy J. Nelson and Lance J. Kriegsfeld, Sinauer Associates, Inc., Sunderland, Massachusetts. Further digital handouts, lecture notes and study and practical manual placed on Brightspace.